Just wanted to get some feedback regarding test pipes. So I have a stock M3 and I just want a cheap way to add power. So I'm thinking I'll add pulleys and a test pipe. But regarding the test pipe, can I run it with the stock x-pipe and stock axle-back? Also, what would I need to do regarding CEL lights? Will this set up drone and be overly loud? I saw the macht schnell post and I couldn't tell how much the sound changed over the dyno.

Also, is there any difference between different manufacturer test pipes? MS or others? Any particular you would recommend?

Just wanted to get some feedback regarding test pipes. So I have a stock M3 and I just want a cheap way to add power. So I'm thinking I'll add pulleys and a test pipe. But regarding the test pipe, can I run it with the stock x-pipe and stock axle-back? Also, what would I need to do regarding CEL lights? Will this set up drone and be overly loud? I saw the macht schnell post and I couldn't tell how much the sound changed over the dyno.

Also, is there any difference between different manufacturer test pipes? MS or others? Any particular you would recommend

Thanks!

The sound will increase as there's no Primary Cats restriction. You will need a tune for the CEL or the Akra Delete-R. I don't think there's much difference between known manufactures. I ordered mine a week ago with Sal from AUTOcouture excellent service, fast shipping, and outstanding price. I got the Test Pipes with the ESS Tune as a bundle. Give them a call you won't regret it.

hey bro im actually running this on my car, the ESS tune with the ACM test pipes..I also have an Akra slip on..for the exhaust sound it will be louder, but not overwhelming..id say about half as loud as an x pipe. IMO its perfect for the price and power theres no better way to go..my buddy and I took ours out last night (hes stock) and did pulls..it wasnt even close so theres def a big difference and no placebo effect...i dont have the pulleys simply bc i dont think its worth it for myself bc this summer ill be supercharged and just remove them...test pipes are the same id compare it to who makes a better pencil bc its all the same design when i looked at the MS and my ACM...without the tune i ran a CEL about 1000 miles after installed but the tune took it away..just go with the tune you wont regret it and the Akra delete is just like a band aid and covers up the CEL...thats all i can say from personal daily experience on the Autobahn so hopeully i helped out a lil

Agree with the guys above. I just posted a review and little clip of an install i had done this week, Turner Test Pipes and a BPMsport Stage II tune (tunes cams, among other things, and gets rid of the CEL). I have Agency Power axle back which I think is great for the money. You'll be $2000 in with a set-up like mine, but it's worth it.

Just wanted to get some feedback regarding test pipes. So I have a stock M3 and I just want a cheap way to add power. So I'm thinking I'll add pulleys and a test pipe. But regarding the test pipe, can I run it with the stock x-pipe and stock axle-back? Also, what would I need to do regarding CEL lights? Will this set up drone and be overly loud? I saw the macht schnell post and I couldn't tell how much the sound changed over the dyno.

Also, is there any difference between different manufacturer test pipes? MS or others? Any particular you would recommend?

Thanks!

Most West coasters are running the Macht Schnell Bypass Test pipes. Here's one member's experiences in this thread:

I just did this over the Xmas break. Got the AA drop-in intake, AA Pulley, Turner Test Pipe, and Evolve-R software. This is the definitely the cheapest way to squeeze some more power out of the car. I even ran before and after dynos just to see the gain and there was clearly a power increase.

For the test pipe, there's not much difference, I went with Turner only because I've known and used their product since the e36 days. But it basically just a straight piece of pipe, I don't see much engineering required. Pulley you can do some research, some uses one pulley, custom belt, other has two pulley etc. There's a thread discussion the various manufacture's pulley. I went with AA once again base on my e36 experience with them, and they had a sale going on. Software is once again subjective, but I suspect they are probably all very similiar. Mike Benevo, ESS, and Evolve.

As far as sound goes, on startup its even louder then before, quite annoying (embarassing) actually even with the pre-heat cat sequence deleted, but that crazy rumble goes away in less then a minute. On normal driving & cruising, its a few decibels louder. On hard acceleration, its also a tad louder (which I enjoy).

Overall I really enjoy these mods, my only regret is I wish I had done it sooner. I'm actually 'afraid' of my car again cause its so fast and responsive. Its a hard feeling to explain. Can't wait to take it out to track again with these new mods.

BTW, I would definitely get the software with it, it clears the errors, and it makes the car silky smooth. I use to have a lot of DCT jerks during cold start, low gears. All of this is gone now, plus you gain a few more ponies.

I have the MS pipes. Everything else in the exhaust is stock. I like them. The car has a bit more raw/rasp attitude, but not over the top---not enough to get you in trouble when cruising. A Highway Patrol officer SERIOUSLY eyeballed my car a few days ago while cruising in freeway traffic going below the speed limit. I was totally chillin' and had been chillin' for the last 20 miles. He was looking to ticket someone----he checked my front bumper for a plate, he cruised behind me, in front of me, turned all the way around to look back at my car when in front of me. I mean really......I was just cruising along with everyone else. I have no tint, the front plate is on the tow point. If the car had been loud, he would have gladly pulled me over, because as soon as he was done with me, he got behind a pickup and pulled him over......so, I can say with certainty the test pipes raise no issues when cruising around. But when you get on it, it has a nice direct sound.